Head of Grounds
The Vacancy
This is a newly created, senior operational leadership role with responsibility for the grounds and gardens across two leading independent schools: Ardingly College and Great Walstead School.
The Head of Grounds will provide strategic and hands-on leadership to deliver outstanding sports surfaces, landscaped grounds and areas that enhance the educational, co-curricular and commercial activities of both schools. The role requires a high level of professional expertise in sports turf, horticulture and grounds management, alongside strong people leadership and planning capability.
Across both schools, the grounds include extensive sports facilities (football pitches, tennis courts, cricket squares, all-weather pitches), landscaped gardens, woodland areas and ancillary areas. The postholder will lead a multi-site team and work closely with senior stakeholders to ensure the grounds are safe, attractive, sustainable and fit for year-round purpose.
Reporting to the Director of Estates and Facilities, the postholder will lead, manage and develop a skilled and committed team comprising of two Deputy Heads of Grounds and nine groundspersons and gardeners.
This role provides numerous opportunities for professional development and personal growth, with a salary ranging from £45,000 to £48,000 depending on experience.
The total remuneration offered represents a salary, pension and benefits package that reflects the substantial contribution made by staff towards the success of the College.
The Company
To view the full job description please see the documents attached at the bottom of the page. To apply please click the green 'apply' button in the top right-hand corner. If you require further information please contact the HR team on 01444 893192 or email hr@ardingly.com.
A completed application should be submitted by the closing date of 20/02/2026 12:00, although applications may be considered upon receipt.
Ardingly College is an independent co-educational boarding and day school for boys and girls aged 2 -18, a member of the HMC and a school of the Woodard Corporation. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All employees are required to undertake child protection screening appropriate to the post including enhanced DBS checks.
Working for Us - Please visit our new page to find out everything the College has to offer and all the benefits available to our staff by clicking this link: Working here - Ardingly.
Documents
